What to Do When You Have a Flat Tire on the Road?
2 Answers
Solutions for a flat tire on the road are: 1. Hold the steering wheel at the 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock positions and do not turn the steering wheel; 2. Gently tap the brake to control the speed, and if conditions permit, turn on the hazard lights to alert other vehicles; 3. Check the rearview mirror to see if there are any vehicles behind you, then slowly move out of the lane and park the car in the emergency lane. A front tire blowout is more dangerous because the front tires are not only the driving wheels but also the steering wheels. Therefore, when a front tire blows out, there will be a noticeable shift in direction. A rear tire blowout is less dangerous compared to a front tire blowout. The main thing is to maintain control of the steering wheel and repeatedly tap the brakes, as braking shifts the car's center of gravity forward, increasing the load on the front tires and reducing pressure on the rear tires.
Two years ago on the highway, I experienced a tire blowout—the sound was terrifying, but it's crucial not to panic. Remember to grip the steering wheel firmly and avoid slamming the brakes, as this can cause loss of control. Ease off the accelerator gently to let the speed drop, then check your mirrors and slowly pull over when it's safe. Once stopped, immediately turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers, and don’t stay near the car—move to a safe area beyond the guardrail to call your insurance company or roadside assistance. If you have a spare tire and tools, follow the manual’s steps to change it yourself, but ensure the ground is level. Make it a habit to check tire pressure and tread wear monthly; replace tires if the tread depth is below 3mm to avoid issues while driving. Especially before rainy weather or long trips, double-check these details—small actions like these can save lives.
